What I Cook When I Crave Chicken Recipes

Close-up of a pan filled with penne pasta, tender chicken pieces, and vibrant pesto sauce, a popular chicken recipe.

This recipe is perfect for busy home cooks who want a quick, delicious, and healthy chicken meal. It's inspired by a personal story of creating a satisfying dish on a hectic weeknight.

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Prep Time 10

Cook Time 20

Resting 5

Total Time 35

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

For the Chicken

2 Tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
2 (8-oz.) boneless, skinless chicken breasts cut into 1" pieces
3/4 tsp. Kosher salt

For the Pasta

4 garlic cloves finely chopped
1/4 tsp. crushed red pepper flakes
1 3/4 cups water
3/4 cup heavy cream
8 oz. penne
1 oz. Parmesan finely grated (about 1/2 cup)
2/3 cup pesto store-bought or homemade
1/2 tsp. salt

For Serving

1 fresh basil optional

Equipment

medium skillet
Instant-read thermometer

Method

Heat oil in a medium skillet over medium heat. Add chicken and season with 3/4 tsp. salt. Cook, stirring occasionally, until browned and an instant-read thermometer registers 160°, 4 to 5 minutes total. Transfer chicken to a plate.
In the same skillet over medium heat, cook garlic and red pepper flakes, stirring, until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Add water, cream, and 1/2 tsp. salt and bring to a simmer. Add penne and cook, stirring occasionally, until pasta is al dente and liquid is reduced to a sauce that coats the pasta, 8 to 10 minutes.
Stir in Parmesan and chicken and toss until cheese is melted and chicken is warmed through, about 2 minutes. Remove from heat and fold in pesto. If sauce feels dry, add water, 1 Tbsp. at a time, until a creamy sauce forms. Season with more salt, if needed. Top with basil, if using.

Notes

This recipe was developed out of a need for a quick and satisfying chicken dish on a busy weeknight. It uses simple ingredients and comes together in under an hour.

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